From IMS and six sigma toward TQM: an empirical study from Serbia
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present the current status of a quality management practice in Serbia, in terms of the development and application of integrated managements systems (IMS), and research and implementation of Six Sigma and the related techniques.
Design/methodology/approach
Two main aspects of total quality management (TQM) have been considered: institutional (organisational or strategic) aspect that corresponds to standardised management systems and their integration, and technical (quality engineering) aspect whose main contributor is Six Sigma. The findings of a comprehensive study on IMS implementation in Serbia have been presented, based on the results of a questionnaire that was sent to 54 organisations during 2013. Also, the significant technical improvements and tangible benefits of a recently conducted Six Sigma project were shown, including the application of the advanced quality engineering techniques within DMAIC method.
Findings
Good QM practice in Serbia is improving, both in terms of the organisational (IMS) and technical (Six Sigma) aspect, that server as a good basis for the adoption of TQM in manufacturing companies from various sectors. It could be anticipated that these results will facilitate the adoption of an overall TQM culture in Serbia and leverage its future sustainability.
Originality/value
This paper offers key insights into IMS and Six Sigma implementation in Serbia. This could encourage manufacturing organisations in developing countries to adopt IMS and Six Sigma, in order to boost the overall TQM culture and gain a competitive advantage.
Keywords
Citation
Majstorovic, V. and Sibalija, T.V. (2015), "From IMS and six sigma toward TQM: an empirical study from Serbia", The TQM Journal, Vol. 27 No. 3, pp. 341-355. https://doi.org/10.1108/TQM-12-2013-0130
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2015, Emerald Group Publishing Limited